hey, pat, thanks for the reply. this is exactly what i'm worried about with the steroids, that ultimately they'll do more harm than good...

i've not tried yoga yet, but my physiotherapist would like me to once my back is a little less painful. also, she gives me pilates exercises, which are really helpful. they make my back go "crunch crunch" but they feel great!

i can't stay down as i'm off to russia for a month! but i'm going all the way by train and flying home so i shall be able to just be quiet and read and listen to music and sit around the train with occasional strolls, so it should be ok - i hope!x